“CGI stunts lack reality”

Legendary action star Jackie Chan believes modern film stunts have lost their edge. In an interview with Haute Living, the 70-year-old martial arts icon reflected on the evolution of stunt work in Hollywood, noting a shift away from physical risk toward computer-generated spectacle. “In the old days, the only [choice we had] was to be there and jump; that’s it,” Chan said. “Today, with computers, actors can do anything, but there’s always a sense of reality that you feel is missing.”

For Chan, whose bruising and often bone-breaking work in films like Drunken Master and Police Story became the stuff of legend, CGI is a “double-edged sword.” While it enhances safety and expands possibilities, it also blurs the lines between possible and preposterous. “The audience is numb [to it],” he added. “But I’m not encouraging anybody to risk their lives to do the stunts like I did; it truly is too dangerous.”

Despite the digital age, Chan hasn’t retired his signature approach. “Of course, I always do my own stunts. It’s who I am,” he said. “That’s not changing until the day I retire, which is never!”

With six decades of stunt work behind him, Chan credits instinct and experience over training. “Everything is in your heart and soul; it is muscle memory.” He has reportedly broken nearly every bone in his body during his career, including his pelvis, fingers, and skull.

Chan returns to the screen with Karate Kid: Legends, releasing May 30, alongside Ralph Macchio and Ben Wang. He reprises his role as Mr Han from the 2010 reboot, reminding audiences once again that while effects may dazzle, authenticity still lands the hardest punch.